The Gateway Education Center uses technology on a daily basis in their learning processes to inspire and equip their students, according to a press release from Warsaw Community Schools. As Gateway staff learns more about the STEM initiative, they are beginning to implement technology into their instructional practices. Peter Lucht’s middle school students use technology in a variety of ways. The students use their iPads to take notes in all of their subjects, accessing an app called “Notability” that allows them to type, write, draw and organize notes into subjects and topics. Students also use an app called “Adobe Voice” enabling them to create multimedia presentations. Lucht’s class works directly with Wendy Kovach, head librarian and coordinator of media services for WCS, to research topics online. Students are trained for proper citation with the “GUARD” program, ensuring that they are using professional websites in their research. Recently, students have been researching the causes of the American Revolution. Students used professional websites and databases to find information and pictures, while recording their voices on the presentation as they narrate the story of the birth of the nation. Students also receive classroom instruction in an online program called “APEX,” as well as a program called “ALEKS.” Both of these programs serve as an individualized instructional tool to address math preparation for the Algebra End of Course Assessment that students must pass in their pursuit of a high school diploma. According to Steve Ferber, director of the Gateway Education Center, “The STEM initiative is exciting for both students and staff. Gateway staff is embracing the use of technology to facilitate learning and more deeply engage students in the learning process.”
